Scout dissects Spiller’s role: Buffalo Bills running back C.J. Spiller was easily one of the biggest fantasy disappointments of 2013. Some of that struggle can be placed on a high-ankle sprain that hampered the running back all season. But according to one scout, maybe Spiller isn’t suited to be the workhorse back he was pegged to be at the start of last season. On the one hand, it’s a valid criticism. In 61 career games, Spiller has had 20-plus carries just five times — with varying results. He’s also never had more than 26 touches in a game. Contrast that with a lead back like LeSean McCoy, who logged 20 or more carries in eight games in 2013. There’s also the Fred Jackson factor. When healthy, Buffalo’s veteran back has proven to be an equally versatile and productive option. After last season, fantasy owners will understandably be wary of drafting Spiller. It’s probably best to approach 2014 thinking of the former Clemson standout as a Darren Sproles or Danny Woodhead-type back and drafted as a RB3.

Jordan Reed earns rave reviews: Although we didn’t see a whole lot of Jordan Reed, there was plenty for fantasy owners to like about Washington’s rookie tight end. After taking over for Fred Davis as the team’s tight end of choice, Reed became a big mid-season surprise. From Weeks 7-10, the Florida product averaged 11.6 fantasy points per game — including a breakout 19.4-point performance against the Chicago Bears. Unfortunately a concussion cut Reed’s season short. But Washington’s new offensive coordinator, Sean McVay, reportedly is enamored with Reed’s skills. With Robert Griffin III seeking another consistent target to complement Pierre Garcon, Reed has plenty of fantasy potential heading to 2014.

Bell wants to stay in Detroit: Restricted free agent-to-be Joique Bell has said he’d like to remain with the Detroit Lions going forward on a long-term deal and that the feeling from Detroit’s front office is mutual. Bell was arguably fantasy football’s best handcuff option last season. He scored just 21.5 fewer points than teammate Reggie Bush and landed among the top 20 fantasy running backs — better than players like Maurice Jones-Drew, C.J. Spiller and Ray Rice, among others. If Bell indeed remains in the Motor City, he’ll remain a quality handcuff option for Bush and an occasional spot-start for fantasy owners.

– Follow Marcas on Twitter @MarcasG

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